Blossom Music Center was planned and built from 1966 to 1968, opening officially with the first concert performed on June 19, 1968. It was named after Dudley S. Blossom, who served as the president of the orchestra's nonprofit governing body, Musical Arts Association, 30 years prior to the building of the amphitheater. The contributions of he and his family were widely celebrated throughout the Cleveland area. Since construction, the center has been used for events and concerts of varying genres, including classical, pop, jazz, country and rock.
The original $8 million budget included the purchase of the surrounding 33,000 acres. Built into a natural bowl shape, Blossom Music Center was created to be an eco-friendly addition to the area. The Pavilion is located inside the bowl and was covered by a newly added slate roof during the 2003 renovations. Other improvements included additional seating inside the pavilion, new parking lots, concession areas, picnic spaces, lighting and a modern sound system. Expansive gardens were added to blend the natural surroundings with the new amenities.
The amphitheater has a capacity of 19,200 people, including the spacious 800-acre general admission lawn area. Reserved seating inside the pavilion can accommodate 5,700 people who enjoy the benefit of being protected from the elements. An additional 13,500 patrons can bring chairs or blankets to set up camp and view shows from the scenic hillside.
Blossom Music Center has a diverse history of uses. Concerts make up the bulk of the schedule, with season ticket holders often selling out the pavilion area. The Blossom Festival, a 10-week orchestral performance, is held every summer. Sold-out performers have included the Cleveland Orchestra, Radiohead, Carlos Santana, Jimmy Buffet and the Dave Matthews Band. Since 2003, visitors have traveled to the annually held October Carnival of Horrors, a Halloween-themed attraction.
Blossom Music Center is centered in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio. Its location, 10 miles north of Akron and 30 miles south of downtown Cleveland, allows for easy access from several interstate highways and contributes to the popularity of the complex.